What Are Medical Devices And What Do They Do?

The life of a medical consultant has recently become more and more advanced over the years, with the advent of new and improved medical devices. In the past, doctors would have to use a broad range treatments and exams to find what is wrong with their patient. Nowadays, there are dozens of high tech medical devices that make a doctor’s life much easier. They can make diagnosis faster and more efficient, and make treatment safer and more effective. These medical instruments and medication play instrumental roles in the life of a modern doctor.

Types Of Medical Devices:

There are three classes of medical devices: Class I, Class II and Class III. Class I medical devices are very clear-cut and straight forward. These devices can cause next to no harm if used incorrectly, and are generally very trouble-free and basic. Some examples would be plastic examination gloves, a stethoscope, bandages and other standard provisions. Class II devices are a bit more complicated than Class I devices. They require a bit more regulation and aid than a Class I device. Examples of Class II medical devices are: an X-ray machine, a nebulizer, acupuncture needles and sutures. These devices are not inherently dangerous, but require but more regulation and control than Class I devices. Class III medical devices are the most sophisticated and regulated of the classes. They are very high-risk and are defined as something that can possibly cause a high risk of injury. Some examples of Class III medical devices are things such as heart valves, life support and an iron lung. All of these are very chancy treatments, but if administer correctly, can be used to save a patient’s life.

Medical Devices play an indispensable role in the medical industry. While these risks may exist, all medical devices are cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the doctors are well aware of the potential repercussions of using each device incorrectly are. There may be times where a doctor is literally forced to take a risk, in order to save a patient. With all medical devices passing FDA regulations, the risk is controlled and is a calculated risk. This makes the risk of using Class III and some Class II medical devices worth it. Without taking a chance, doctors are able to plan their treatment and diagnosis around using risky methods. This allows doctors to try more experimental treatment, and can often lead to various breakthroughs in the world of medicine.

Final Thoughts:
Modern medicine is just incredible. There are devices that can tell exactly what is wrong with a patient, without a prolonged and extensive examination. There are devices that can aid the patient in recovery, without horrible side effects. Thanks to regulation of all classes of medical devices by the FDA, any risks taken by a doctor are completely accounted for and planned around. This allows doctors to do whatever it takes to save a patient’s life, without worrying about an element of chance.

Med Tech Innovation provide up to date news on all aspects of medical devices, and the industry at large.

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